Joshua 4:3

and command them: 'Take up for yourselves twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan where the priests were standing, carry them with you, and set them down in the place where you spend the night.'"

Study Bible

and command them
This phrase indicates a directive given with authority. In the Hebrew context, the word for "command" is "tsavah," which implies a charge or an order that is to be followed with obedience. This reflects the hierarchical structure of leadership established by God, where Joshua, as the leader, is to instruct the people according to God's will. It underscores the importance of divine authority and the need for the Israelites to follow God's commands precisely as they enter the Promised Land.

Take up for yourselves
The act of taking up signifies personal responsibility and participation in God's plan. The Hebrew root "laqach" means to take, receive, or acquire. This action is not passive; it requires the Israelites to actively engage in the fulfillment of God's promises. It is a reminder that while God provides, His people must also take steps of faith and obedience to receive His blessings.

twelve stones
The number twelve is significant in biblical numerology, often representing completeness or the people of God, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel. The stones serve as a physical and spiritual memorial, symbolizing the unity and collective identity of the tribes. Archaeologically, stones were commonly used in ancient times to mark significant events or covenants, serving as a lasting testimony to future generations.

from this place
This phrase emphasizes the specific location where God performed a miraculous act. The Jordan River was a boundary between the wilderness and the Promised Land, and the crossing marked a pivotal moment in Israel's history. The stones taken from this place would serve as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and power at a critical juncture in their journey.

in the middle of the Jordan
The middle of the Jordan River was where the priests stood with the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This location highlights the miraculous nature of the crossing, as the waters were held back by divine intervention. It serves as a testament to God's ability to make a way where there seems to be none, reinforcing His sovereignty and the importance of His presence in overcoming obstacles.

where the priests’ feet stood firm
The priests standing firm in the riverbed signifies stability and faith amidst uncertainty. The Hebrew word "kun" for "stood firm" conveys the idea of being established or secure. This imagery reflects the steadfastness required of God's people when facing challenges. The priests' role as intermediaries between God and the people underscores the necessity of spiritual leadership grounded in faith.

and carry them over with you
The act of carrying the stones over the Jordan signifies the transition from one phase of life to another. It represents the movement from wandering to settling, from promise to fulfillment. This transition requires effort and commitment, symbolizing the journey of faith that each believer must undertake. It is a call to remember and carry forward the lessons and testimonies of God's faithfulness.

and set them down
Setting the stones down is an act of establishing a memorial. The Hebrew root "yanach" means to place or set, indicating a deliberate action to create a lasting reminder. This act of setting down the stones is a way to honor and remember God's intervention and to teach future generations about His mighty works. It serves as a physical representation of spiritual truths and divine faithfulness.

in the place where you spend the night
The place where the Israelites would spend the night is significant as it marks the first encampment in the Promised Land. It is a place of rest and reflection after a significant journey. This location becomes a sacred space where the community can pause to acknowledge God's provision and prepare for the next steps in their journey. It highlights the importance of remembering God's past faithfulness as a foundation for future trust and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land.

2. The Israelites
The people of God, who are crossing the Jordan River into the land promised to them by God.

3. The Jordan River
A significant geographical and spiritual boundary that the Israelites must cross to enter the Promised Land.

4. The Twelve Stones
Stones taken from the Jordan River to serve as a memorial for the miraculous crossing.

5. The Priests
Those who carried the Ark of the Covenant and stood in the Jordan River, causing the waters to part.

Teaching Points

Memorials of Faith
Just as the twelve stones served as a physical reminder of God's deliverance, we should establish memorials in our lives to remember God's faithfulness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in taking the stones demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions, even when they may not fully understand the purpose.

The Role of Leadership
Joshua's leadership in directing the people to take the stones highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding others to remember and honor God's works.

The Significance of Community
The collective action of the Israelites in setting up the stones underscores the importance of community in witnessing and remembering God's acts.

Faith in Action
The act of taking stones from the riverbed required faith that God would continue to hold back the waters, illustrating the need for faith in God's ongoing provision and protection.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance do the twelve stones hold for the Israelites, and how can we create similar memorials in our own spiritual journeys?

2. How does the crossing of the Jordan River compare to other miraculous events in the Bible, and what does this teach us about God's power?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, even when the reasons are not immediately clear?

4. How can we, as a community of believers, support one another in remembering and celebrating God's faithfulness?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to step out in faith, trusting in God's provision. How did that experience strengthen your relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The crossing of the Red Sea, which parallels the crossing of the Jordan River, both demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

1 Samuel 7
The setting up of the Ebenezer stone by Samuel as a memorial of God's help, similar to the twelve stones from the Jordan.

Psalm 114
A poetic reflection on the power of God over nature, including the parting of the Jordan River.

Matthew 3
John the Baptist baptizing in the Jordan River, symbolizing a new beginning, much like the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land.

1 Peter 2
The concept of believers as living stones, building a spiritual house, reflecting the idea of memorial stones as a testimony to God's work.